Hematite (dai zhe shi)

Haematitum (ijzeroxide)

Traditionally attributed effects: anchors rising liver yang, makes rebellious qi descend and cools the blood in bleeding.

Safety notes

Not during pregnancy. Can contain traces of arsenic: only short-term and under supervision. Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Preparation

Ground mineral, pre-boiled for 2 hours. Usually as a decoction, together with other herbs.

Use in traditions

Described in the classical Chinese materia medica, in the group 'substances that anchor and calm the mind'. Haematite (dai zhe shi) is iron oxide. According to Chinese medicine the heavy mineral makes rising qi descend, for vomiting, hiccups and headache. It is part of Xuan Fu Dai Zhe Tang.

Applications

Use by tradition

How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.

Chinese materia medica

Nature and taste: bitter, cold
Meridians: liver, stomach, pericardium, heart

Attributed effects

For rising liver yang from yin deficiency with irritability, dizziness, tinnitus and blurred vision, acute asthma, vomiting, nausea and hiccups from rebellious qi, and nosebleeds, coughing up blood and uterine bleeding.

Preparation and amount

Deliberately no dosage is given here: only under the supervision of a qualified therapist.

Combinations

With xuan fu hua, ban xia and fresh ginger for belching and hiccups
With ginseng and shan zhu yu for asthma from lung and kidney deficiency

Ways to prepare herbs: Decoction Powder and kitchen
Formulas: Xuan fu dai zhe tang

Sources

All herbs from Asia →